Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9693EPE

Overview

MAX9693EPE from Maxim Integrated is a dual ultra-fast ECL-output comparator with latch-enable functionality, designed for high-frequency signal conditioning in >600MHz systems. It delivers 1.2ns typical propagation delay, 100ps channel-to-channel propagation match, and operates from +5V/-5.2V supplies with open-emitter outputs requiring external 50Ω–200Ω pull-down resistors to -2.0V or -5.2V. It is used in high-speed line receivers and peak detectors where precise timing capture and low skew are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9693EPE datasheet, MAX9693EPE pinout, MAX9693EPE application, or MAX9693EPE equivalent, key selection considerations include its dual-channel ECL-compatible architecture, latch-enable timing (0.5ns setup/hold), 150ps dispersion, 16-pin PDIP package with separate ground pins (GND1 for input stage, GND2 for output stage), and compatibility with 50Ω-terminated transmission lines.

Technical Context

The MAX9693EPE integrates two independent high-speed comparators sharing common supply rails but with isolated input and output grounds (GND1/GND2). Each channel features differential ECL-level inputs, complementary open-emitter outputs, and dedicated latch-enable (LEA/LEB) and complementary latch-enable (LEA/LEB) terminals enabling sample-hold operation per channel.

Its BiCMOS process enables sub-2ns propagation delay while maintaining DC precision: ±11.5mV input offset voltage over temperature, 80dB CMRR, and 70dB open-loop gain. The device requires microstrip PCB layout with ground plane, 0.01µF ceramic decoupling at VCC/VEE pins, and careful termination to avoid oscillation due to its >1GHz gain-bandwidth product.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9693EPE uses a 16-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is top-left corner when notch faces up; GND pins (3, 14) are internally connected and must tie to solid copper ground plane. VCC (pin 7) and VEE (pin 16) require local 0.1µF ceramic decoupling.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-fast ECL comparator applications.

Compared with MAX9693EPE, MAX9693ESE offers identical electrical performance in a surface-mount package ideal for compact layouts, while MAX9692EPE provides half the channel density at lower unit cost-both serve distinct mechanical and integration requirements without compromising core timing specifications.

Availability

MAX9693EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed line receivers, peak detectors, threshold detectors, and high-speed triggers requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C) and long-lifecycle production programs.

Supply support for MAX9693EPE includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for demanding applications in communications, computing, and industrial systems.

The MAX9691/MAX9692/MAX9693 family targets ultra-high-speed signal acquisition and timing-critical decision circuits, emphasizing sub-2ns propagation, ECL compatibility, and latch-enable functionality for real-time sampling.

FAQ

What power supply voltages does the MAX9693EPE require?

The MAX9693EPE requires +5V on VCC (pin 7) and -5.2V on VEE (pin 16). These rails must be independently bypassed with 0.1µF ceramic capacitors placed adjacent to each pin. The device draws 50mA typical supply current across both channels and is not compatible with single-supply or CMOS-level voltages.

How are the latch-enable inputs configured on the MAX9693EPE?

The MAX9693EPE has two independent latch-enable pairs: LEA/LEA (pins 5/12) for Channel A and LEB/LEB (pins 4/13). To enable latching, drive the true LE input low (≤ -1.5V) while holding the complementary input high (≥ -1.1V). If unused, tie LE inputs to ground and complementary inputs to -1.1V via resistor divider.

What is the purpose of separate GND1 and GND2 pins on the MAX9693EPE?

The MAX9693EPE does not use GND1/GND2 labeling; all ground pins (3, 14) are labeled GND and internally connected. Earlier MAX9691/MAX9692 variants used separate GND1/GND2, but MAX9693EPE consolidates grounding-both pins must connect to the same low-inductance solid copper ground plane to maintain timing integrity.

Can the MAX9693EPE drive 50Ω transmission lines directly?

Yes-the MAX9693EPE's open-emitter outputs can sink up to 50mA and are designed to drive 50Ω-terminated lines. External 50Ω pull-down resistors to -2.0V produce nominal ECL logic levels (-0.76V to -1.89V); for -5.2V termination, use 240Ω–2000Ω resistors per output.

What is the maximum operating frequency supported by the MAX9693EPE?

The MAX9693EPE supports signal processing beyond 600MHz, as confirmed by its 1.2ns propagation delay and <2ns worst-case delay across temperature. Its usable bandwidth is limited by layout (microstrip required), source impedance (<50Ω recommended), and load capacitance (<2pF), not intrinsic device limits.